The Tampa Bay Rays have been busy over the past couple of offseasons as they have been signing key pieces to long term deals. Their next extension may belong to a player who has yet to reach the majors.
According to Jeff Passan from ESPN, the Rays are discussing a long term deal with third base prospect Curtis Mead. He was initially signed as an international prospect from Australia in 2017 before being traded to the Rays for pitcher Christopher Sanchez during the 2019-20 offseason.
Curtis Mead next in line for Tampa Bay Rays?
Mead has made himself into one of the best prospects in baseball since those humble beginnings. He is now considered a consensus top 100 prospect in the game, someone who could solidify one of the Rays’ infield spots for the next decade. Mead is considered one of the best hitters in the minors, capable of driving the ball to all fields with authority as he has improved his plate discipline, despite questions about his future defensive home.
That potential is clear in his minor league production. Mead missed time with a sprained elbow in 2022, but still posted impressive numbers between Double-A and Triple-A. He produced a .298/.390/.532 batting line with 13 homers and 27 doubles in his 331 plate appearances, drawing 36 walks while striking out 62 times. As Mead is just 21 years old, the sky appears to be the limit.
The Rays are hoping that proves to be the case. Mead could be a middle of the order bat, a powerful part of the lineup wherever he plays. It is just a matter of finding a home on the diamond and getting him more experience at Triple-A. Should he continue to dominate, his time could come this year.
The Tampa Bay Rays are discussing a long term deal with Curtis Mead. He could end up as the next young star in their future core.
Leave a Reply